Inspired by the swinging, hedonistic atmosphere of the one American city that overcame the Great Depression, the Kansas Smitty’s House Band stands apart from all other groups currently populating London's booming 1930s music scene, achieving an authenticity of style and virtuosity without rival. The Smitty's are fast becoming the UK band best known for recreating the true atmosphere of Prohibition-era America, having previously wowed thousands of guests at their former bar, Kansas Smitty's, on Broadway Market.
Their primary style is instrumental swing, incorporating the sounds of New Orleans Dixieland, classic big band swing and straight-ahead 1950s bebop. Their enormous repertoire also encompasses Parisian gypsy swing masters such as Django Reinhardt, the Latin and Cuban street sounds of New Orleans Mardi Gras, and an array of influences from blues to bossa nova. The band features anything from four to eight players, covering repertoire from giants of the genre including Count Basie, Fats Waller, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet.
The Smitty’s stage presence is pure dynamism, combining a deep, collective understanding and love of the jazz tradition with a lightness of touch and a sense of adventure. Bandmates rejoice in each other’s playing and push one another on to higher ground in their improvisations. They have quickly established themselves as the most exciting young jazz band in London, enjoying residencies at venues including Ronnie Scott's, the 606 Club, the Vortex Jazz Club, Mayfair Arts Club, Shoreditch House, Servant Jazz Quarters, Vault Festival and many more.
Possessing authenticity, sophistication and a sense of fun in equal measure, The Kansas Smitty's are a one of a kind proposition for weddings, parties and private events. As consummate masters in their craft, they know how to blend what they do to suit your event whilst exuding the cool glow of critical acclaim. As a client seeking the best in live music for a private or corporate market, you couldn't be in safer hands.
The Kansas Smitty's Big 4 (4-piece) and House Band (5-8 piece) are now available for private & corporate event bookings exclusively through LMI Live.